Authentic Singapore experience

I am going to be in Singapore for 48 hours in a few weeks. I really want an authentic experience but have also heard that they have some of the best hotels in the world, so should I do luxury or enjoy something more traditional to Singapore living?

I am really keen to hear suggestions on Places to stay, must do's and food. I already have my sights on Little India, China town and the zoo. But any thoughts about 'anything Singapore' would be welcomed.

Can anyone recommend if I should be hiring a guide to take me around or just go it on my usual own? Reply to this

We went to Singapore for a couple of weeks over Christmas and New Year. We stayed in BetelBox hostel, which I highly recommend. They run free tours of less travelled areas of Singapore to teach you more about the culture, food, sights etc. It's in the Malay/Chinese area too.

Look it up on google.

Do the zoo. It's amazing. The night safari is ok but very very busy. During the day the zoo was fab. There are some cool WW11 museums that are well worth a look too.

I'm Singaporean and this is my first post here. Recently, a Spanish friend whom was referred to me had only 2 days here and I did my best in showing her as much of the city one could possibly see on foot and wheels. It was pretty tiring for both of us but she enjoyed her time. On hindsight, we could have paced it better had we been a little more brief with a few sit down chats : ) She mentioned that if there hasn't been a local contact like me, most tourists will commonly believe that 3 days is max for Singapore. Thats true because there are actually a number of fun hidden gems for travellers which even most Singaporeans would not know. Moral of the story: have a good local guide but split the time well with him/her for advice + more obscure places while touring the main attractions on your own.

You usually pay at the point of sale for zoo tix. Major credit cards accepted. Share it if you know discounted tix cuz I like to know too : )

Though I am replying late, i would like to tell you that you should experience both traditional and modern singapore. I have recently shifted here in singapore and am enjoying my stay at adam park condominium at Adam Road, also if you need any help to find accomodation you can visit this website for finest singapore HDBs Hope this helps you. Cheers

I think the easiest way to find real Singapore is to follow your instinct and not follow the other tourists. 😊 Little India, for me was a lot more like the real thing. In fact I followed someone leaving a Hindu temple, because I wanted to take a photo of him and he lead me to this curry place - curry like never before. In Chinatown, just keep walking and you'll find the big temple. In front it it on the square, you'll see these old men, all playing boardgames. It is fantastic. Also, do pop down to changi beach, if you can. Singapore beaches are not very clean, but if you have the time, bathe in the sea. Anyway, I am sure you'll enjoy your holiday in Singapore